What is a Linear Range?

A linear range is a range of hands where every hand is stronger than every hand below it, with no gaps. It is not polarized, which has strong and weak hands but no middle.

What a linear range is and is not

A linear range is a range of hands where every hand is stronger than every hand below it, with no gaps. It is not polarized, which has strong and weak hands but no middle.

How this range idea shows up

Preflop 3-betting

When you 3-bet from the small blind against a button open, you are out of position. A linear range of value hands and strong semi-bluffs works well because you can continue on many flops. For example, a linear 3-bet range might include AA, KK, QQ, AK, AQs, and maybe JJ or AQo. You are not including weak suited aces or low suited connectors, which would be part of a polarized range.

Defending the big blind

When facing a raise, a linear calling range includes all hands that are profitable to call, from strong hands down to the weakest playable hand, with no gaps. For example, if you call with ATo, you also call with A9o if it is profitable, and you do not fold A9o while calling ATo. This is a merged range, which is a type of linear range.

Postflop betting

On the flop, a linear betting range might include all made hands and strong draws, but no weak hands or pure bluffs. This is common on dry boards where you can bet your entire range for value and protection.

How to use a linear range

When to choose linear over polarized

Use a linear range when you are out of position and expect to face aggression, or when your opponent will call with many hands that are worse but have equity. For example, in a 3-bet pot out of position, a linear range allows you to bet many flops and put pressure on your opponent's capped range.

Sizing and frequency

A linear range typically uses larger sizings because you are betting for value and protection. For example, a 3-bet to 3x the open is common. In postflop, a continuation bet of about a third to three-quarters pot is typical with a linear range on dry boards.

Table: Linear vs. Polarized preflop 3-bet ranges

Table: Linear vs. Polarized postflop betting ranges

When not to use a linear range

Do not use a linear range when you are in position and your opponent is likely to fold to aggression. In that case, a polarized range with more bluffs is better. Also, do not use a linear range when your opponent will call with many hands that beat your middle-strength hands. For example, if you are against a calling station, a linear range of thin value bets will get called by better hands.

Next decision after a linear range

If your opponent calls your linear bet, you need to evaluate the turn card and your hand's equity. With a linear range, you can continue betting on many turn cards because your range is strong and uncapped. If the turn brings a card that completes draws, you may need to slow down with your weaker made hands. If your opponent raises, you must decide whether to continue with your strong hands and fold your weaker ones. With a linear range, you have fewer bluff catchers, so you may need to fold more often to raises.

Short-stack vs. 100bb

When you are short-stacked (e.g., 30bb), a linear range is often better because you can commit with many hands and put pressure on your opponent. When you are 100bb deep, a polarized range may be better because you can apply pressure with bluffs and get paid off with your strong hands.

Leaks on this range idea

• Using a linear range when you should be polarized: If you are in position and your opponent is tight, a linear range will not generate enough folds. You need bluffs to win pots.
• Using a polarized range when you should be linear: If you are out of position and your opponent calls too much, a polarized range will get called by better hands and you will lose value.
• Not adjusting to stack sizes: A linear range is often better with short stacks, but many players use the same range regardless of stack depth.
• Ignoring blockers: When constructing a linear range, you should consider blockers. For example, if you have an ace in your hand, it is less likely your opponent has AA or AK, so you can include more hands like AQo.

Frequently asked questions

What is a linear range in poker?

A linear range is a range of hands where every hand is stronger than every hand below it, with no gaps. It is also called a merged range.

What is the difference between linear and polarized ranges?

A linear range includes all hands from strong to weak with no gaps, while a polarized range includes only very strong hands and very weak hands, with no middle-strength hands.

When should I use a linear range?

Use a linear range when you are out of position, when your opponent calls too much, or when you are short-stacked. It allows you to bet for value and protection.

Can a linear range include bluffs?

Yes, a linear range can include semi-bluffs, but they are hands that have equity and are not pure bluffs. For example, a strong draw can be included in a linear range.